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Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Italian, 1920-2006

As one of the founding fathers of modern Italian design, prolific architect and industrial designer Ludovico Magistretti (known by his nickname Vico) was guided by his philosophy, “There is no excuse for bad design.” His architectural projects are widely revered, and an ingenious meld of form and function can be found in his stylish and deceptively simple table lamps, sofas, armchairs and other mid-century furnishings.

Born in Milan, Magistretti followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather (both architects) to study architecture at the Polytechnic University of Milan. At the outbreak of World War II, he fled to Switzerland, and it was there he met his role model and mentor, renowned humanist architect Ernesto Nathan Rogers. Magistretti was inspired by Rogers’s vision to revive postwar Italy, and they collaborated on several reconstruction projects. Among Magistretti’s first architectural designs is a “poetic” round church, which he created for the QT8, an experimental Milanese neighborhood.

When Magistretti returned to Milan in 1945, he worked at his father’s architectural firm. It wasn’t until the early 1950s that he expanded his talents into design while working with furniture artisans.

In the 1960s, Magistretti began his 30-year working relationship with famed entrepreneur Cesare Cassina of the Cassina furniture manufacturing company. In their design approach, the two men shared a vision of the relationship between modernity and tradition and enjoyed a close bond (Magistretti designed Cassina’s luxurious villa in 1965). However, their friendship was not without contention.

Legend has it that upon seeing the prototype for Magistretti’s Maralunga sofa, Cassina hated it so much that he punched it, breaking the back of the sofa, which crumpled into itself.

“Right, great, it looks perfect to me like that,” an unfazed Magistretti allegedly responded, and the Maralunga’s slumped, adjustable-height backrest was born. Incidentally, the Maralunga sofa won Italy’s Compasso d’Oro award as did his Eclisse lamp for Artemide and his Atollo lamp for Oluce.

Magistretti died in 2006, but his designs live on in galleries, museums and private residences and offices around the world.

Find a range of vintage Vico Magistretti furniture and lighting on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Vico Magistretti
Coppia Di Poltrone Modello Carimate Di Vico Magistretti
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Rivoli, IT
Il nome della serie è dovuto alla destinazione originaria della sedia, disegnata per la Club House del Golf Club di Carimate, Como. La sedia prende ispirazione in parte dalla tradizi...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Beech

Gaudi Armchair by Vico Magistretti for Artemide
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Montréal, QC
Gaudi Armchair by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, made in Italy, 1970s. Named after architect Antoni Gaudi, the organic lines and form of the chair are heavily influenced by Gaudi's s...
Category

1970s Italian Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic, Fiberglass

Maralunga armchair by Vico Magistretti for Cassina Italy
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Toronto, ON
In 1973, Vico Magistretti designed the Maralunga armchair for the Italian company Cassina. Magistretti was known for his designs that featured simple, essential shapes and the use of...
Category

1970s Italian Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fabric

Set of 2 plastic armchairs Gaudì mod. by V. Magistretti for Artemide  70's
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Padova, IT
Ludovico "Vico" Magistretti (Milan, 6 October 1920 - Milan, 19 September 2006) was one of the most important Italian designers, architect and urban planner. His clean and essential d...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti for Cassina 'Villabianca' Armchair in Black Leather
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti for Cassina, dining chairs model 'Villabianca', leather and wood, Italy, 1985 Designed by Vico Magistretti and produced by Cassina, this armchair shows strong sha...
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Wood

White 'Gaudi' Chair by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, Vintage Early Model, 1970s
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Zagreb, HR
Iconic 'Gaudi' chair designed by Vico Magistretti and produced by Artemide, Italy. Named after Antonio Gaudi. Single piece construction chair that comes from a pressure mold of poly...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Mid Century Carimate Armchair, Design by Vico Magistretti, Cassina Italy 60s
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Lucija, SI
Mid Century armchair Carimate designed by Vico Magistretti and produce by Cassina in the late 60s Made of solid wood and rope in good vintage condition with traces of use and age on ...
Category

1960s European Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rope, Wood

Set of Two Maralunga Black Leather Armchairs by Vico Magistretti
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Roma, IT
Set of two vintage Maralunga armchairs in black leather finish. These iconic series were awarded the Compasso d'Oro in 1973 and are still part of the MOMA's permanent collection tod...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather

Pair of Maralunga Armchairs by Vico Magistretti in Ocean Green Corduroy
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Ozzano Dell'emilia, IT
Pair of Maralunga armchairs designed in 1973 by Vico Magistretti, coming from the first Cassina production (early Seventies), recently upholstered with corduroy. Enveloping desig...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fabric

“Vicario” armchair by Vico Magistretti for Artemide  - Italy - 70's
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Padova, IT
Ludovico "Vico" Magistretti (Milan, 6 October 1920 - Milan, 19 September 2006) was one of the most important Italian designers, architect and urban planner. His clean and essential d...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti Carimate Midcentury Italian Black Armchair Cassina 1960s
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian armchair model '930 Carimate' designed by Vico Magistretti and produced by Cassina with painted wood frame and fabric cushions, Cassina adhesive l...
Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Vicario armchair designed by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, Italy 1970s.
By Artemide, Vico Magistretti
Located in Athens, Attiki
Vicario armchair designed by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, Italy 1970s. In production from 1970 until the mid-70s. Made of fiber glass, this armchair is characterized by fluid shape...
Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Vico Magistretti Set of Twelve ‘Carimate’ Dining Chairs in Straw
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti, set of twelve dining chairs model ‘Carimate’, stained beech, straw wicker, Italy, designed circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ chair is one of Vico Magistretti’s most famous...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Straw, Beech

Vico Magistretti Set of Ten ‘Carimate’ Dining Chairs in Straw
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti, set of ten dining chairs model ‘Carimate’, stained beech, straw wicker, Italy, designed circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ chair is one of Vico Magistretti’s most famous ch...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Straw, Beech

Vico Magistretti for Cassina Pair of ‘Carimate’ Lounge Chairs in Bouclé
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti for Cassina, pair of ‘Carimate’ lounge chairs, beech, bouclé, Italy, designed circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ lounge chair is one of ...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood, Bouclé

Carimate Chairs, Design by Vico Magistretti, Cassina Italy 60s
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Lucija, SI
Vico Magistretti designed the original red “Carimate” chair model in 1959 for the homonymous golf club in Italy. The chair received exposure in the ...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Rope, Wood

Carimate Armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina, 1960s, Set of 2
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Milano, Lombardia
Carimate Armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina, 1960s, Set of 2. A classic of Italian design, the Carimate series by the Design Maestro Vico Magistretti for Cassina. Extremely ...
Category

1960s Italian Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Lacquer

Vico Magistretti Pair of Red Carimate Armchairs for Cassina, Italy, 1961
By Figli di Amadeo Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Milan, IT
Vico Magistrett pair of red carimate armchairs for Cassina, Italy, 1961 Original red lacquer. Original straw seats.
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Straw, Wood

Vico Magistretti 905 Armchair by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Armchair model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magi...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Vico Magistretti 905 Armchair by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Armchair model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magistretti who designed it in 1964. 905 is an elegant chair made of solid wood and cowhide, where design translates to practical simplicity. Produced by Cassina until 2000, this chair has now been relaunched, the finishes and details having been updated from the original archive model. The sophisticated elegance of the frame, which features cylindrical legs and curved arm-rests, has been rejuvenated thanks to Cassina’s extensive experience in handling leather, not to mention the company’s high quality carpentry skills. The complex nature of this piece is expressed in a design that looks simple but fully reflects the genius quality of the original concept, a veritable masterpiece of the crafts tradition proper to Meda, in the Brianza area north of Milan, the trademark registered by Cassina and a guarantee of utmost quality. The frame, in finest quality wood, bespeaks the perfect combination of the artisanal tradition and premier CNC technology, while the overall design stands out for the self-supporting seat crafted from one single piece of saddle leather, curved and slotted into the frame. The decorative stitching has been discontinued, while the rear of the chair still features the leather belt that lends support to the back and enhances its comfort quotient. The 905 chair features a solid wood structure with cylindrical legs and curved armrests, joined to a self-supporting cowhide seat, the quintessential expression of the time-tested experience of the Cassina joinery and saddlery. A masterpiece of complexity, this cowhide chair symbolizes the company’s talent at perfectly blending traditional artisan craftsmanship and the cutting-edge technology of latest-generation 5-axis CNC machines. Important information regarding images of products: Please note that some of the images show other colors and variations of the model, these images are only to present interior design proposals. The item that is selling is on the first image. Important information regarding color(s) of products: Actual colors may vary. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colors and that everyone sees these colors differently. We try to edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual color may vary slightly from your monitor About the designer: In 1920 Magistretti was born in Milan, the city in which he graduated in architecture in 1945, and where his professional career has spun its story ever since, chiefly in the fields of architecture, town planning and industrial design. The first recognition of his work came in 1948, when he won the Gran Premio at the 8th Triennale. After that came almost forty years of activity with other prizes and awards in recognition of Magistretti’s work in various sectors in different countries. Giving lessons and lectures in various faculties of architecture and schools of design in Italy and abroad, from Milan to New York, from Paris to London, a city to which he is particularly devoted, he has been an “Honorary Fellow” of the Royal College of Art since 1983. Furniture, lamps and other objects that he designed may be found all over the world and the most important design museums have given exhibitions in his honour and kept examples of his work in their permanent collections. Magistretti’s research has been continuous - into design, the culture of the project and innovative experimentation with materials and space solutions, not to mention shapes and functions far from the rigours of fashion that they have passed through during the years. He started designing for Cassina in 1960, and from that date on his signature is to be found on very many products. We recall in particular the Maralunga sofa of 1973 and the Nuvola Rossa...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Set of Two Vico Magistretti 905 Armchairs by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Set of two Armchairs model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of ...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Vico Magistretti ‘Carimate’ Dining Chairs with Rush Seating
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti, dining chairs, model ‘Carimate’, lacquered beech, rush, Italy, designed circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ chair is one of Vico Magistretti’s most famous chairs. Originally designed in red color for the ‘Carimate Golf Club’ in Italy that Magistretti designed, the chair was produced for a long time and with four different manufacturers. Since Magistretti was very confident about the success of this model, he requested a patent for the construction and the joints in 1963. Due to the architectural, open frame the ‘Carimate’ chair has a strong expression. The angular frame has two curved armrests that add a dynamic appeal. Where the frame...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Wood

Vico Magistretti 905 Armchair by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Armchair model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magistretti who designed it in 1964. 905 is an elegant chair made of solid wood and cowhide, where design translates to practical simplicity. Produced by Cassina until 2000, this chair has now been relaunched, the finishes and details having been updated from the original archive model. The sophisticated elegance of the frame, which features cylindrical legs and curved arm-rests, has been rejuvenated thanks to Cassina’s extensive experience in handling leather, not to mention the company’s high quality carpentry skills. The complex nature of this piece is expressed in a design that looks simple but fully reflects the genius quality of the original concept, a veritable masterpiece of the crafts tradition proper to Meda, in the Brianza area north of Milan, the trademark registered by Cassina and a guarantee of utmost quality. The frame, in finest quality wood, bespeaks the perfect combination of the artisanal tradition and premier CNC technology, while the overall design stands out for the self-supporting seat crafted from one single piece of saddle leather, curved and slotted into the frame. The decorative stitching has been discontinued, while the rear of the chair still features the leather belt that lends support to the back and enhances its comfort quotient. The 905 chair...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Carimate armchair 930 by Vico Magistretti for Cassina, Italy, 1963
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Padova, IT
Model 930 armchair for the Carimate Golf Club-House, Cassina production design Vico Magistretti year 1963. Structure in brown beech wood, seat and back in white bouclè upholstery. Manufacturing label under the frame. Cassina Spa is an Italian company operating in the contemporary furniture sector, founded in 1927 in Meda (Milan) by Cesare and Umberto Cassina. The main activity is woodworking, within the company, for the production of coffee tables. Over the years the company expands, especially after the war, also thanks to collaborations with external architects who bring their expertise and research. In the 1950s, Cassina switched from artisanal to serial production, adopting the logic of industrial design. A change also induced by the commission for furnishings for the interiors of large cruise ships. In addition, some of the company's best-known products took shape during this period: chair 646 and chair 699, known as the "Superleggera", both designed by Gio Ponti. In 1963 Vico Magistretti joins the company team of designers, creating the Carimate armchair...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Vico Magistretti for Cassina Italian 'Carimate' Wooden Dining Armchair
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in New York, NY
Italian Mid-Century 'Carimate' dining armchair with a solid blonde wood frame, scooped arms, an open back, and a black woven fabric upholstered seat. (VICO MAGISTRETTI FOR CASSINA).
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood, Fabric, Upholstery

Vico Magistretti 905 Armchair by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Armchair model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magistretti who designed it in 1964. 905 is an elegant chair made of solid wood and cowhide, where design translates to practical simplicity. Produced by Cassina until 2000, this chair has now been relaunched, the finishes and details having been updated from the original archive model. The sophisticated elegance of the frame, which features cylindrical legs and curved arm-rests, has been rejuvenated thanks to Cassina’s extensive experience in handling leather, not to mention the company’s high quality carpentry skills. The complex nature of this piece is expressed in a design that looks simple but fully reflects the genius quality of the original concept, a veritable masterpiece of the crafts tradition proper to Meda, in the Brianza area north of Milan, the trademark registered by Cassina and a guarantee of utmost quality. The frame, in finest quality wood, bespeaks the perfect combination of the artisanal tradition and premier CNC technology, while the overall design stands out for the self-supporting seat crafted from one single piece of saddle leather, curved and slotted into the frame. The decorative stitching has been discontinued, while the rear of the chair still features the leather belt that lends support to the back and enhances its comfort quotient. The 905 chair features a solid wood structure with cylindrical legs and curved armrests, joined to a self-supporting cowhide seat, the quintessential expression of the time-tested experience of the Cassina joinery and saddlery. A masterpiece of complexity, this cowhide chair symbolizes the company’s talent at perfectly blending traditional artisan craftsmanship and the cutting-edge technology of latest-generation 5-axis CNC machines. Important information regarding images of products: Please note that some of the images show other colors and variations of the model, these images are only to present interior design proposals. The item that is selling is on the first image. Important information regarding color(s) of products: Actual colors may vary. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colors and that everyone sees these colors differently. We try to edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual color may vary slightly from your monitor About the designer: In 1920 Magistretti was born in Milan, the city in which he graduated in architecture in 1945, and where his professional career has spun its story ever since, chiefly in the fields of architecture, town planning and industrial design. The first recognition of his work came in 1948, when he won the Gran Premio at the 8th Triennale. After that came almost forty years of activity with other prizes and awards in recognition of Magistretti’s work in various sectors in different countries. Giving lessons and lectures in various faculties of architecture and schools of design in Italy and abroad, from Milan to New York, from Paris to London, a city to which he is particularly devoted, he has been an “Honorary Fellow” of the Royal College of Art since 1983. Furniture, lamps and other objects that he designed may be found all over the world and the most important design museums have given exhibitions in his honour and kept examples of his work in their permanent collections. Magistretti’s research has been continuous - into design, the culture of the project and innovative experimentation with materials and space solutions, not to mention shapes and functions far from the rigours of fashion that they have passed through during the years. He started designing for Cassina in 1960, and from that date on his signature is to be found on very many products. We recall in particular the Maralunga sofa of 1973 and the Nuvola Rossa...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Set of Two SD51 "Golem" Chairs by Vico Magistretti for Poggi, Italy, 1960s
By Poggi, Vico Magistretti
Located in Milan, IT
Pair of SD51 Golem chair by Vico Magistretti for Poggi. Sinuous long backrest, lacquered frame and leather covering. A third single piece available
Category

1960s Italian Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Wood

Set of Two Vico Magistretti 905 Armchairs by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Armchair model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magistretti who designed it in 1964. 905 is an elegant chair made of solid wood and cowhide, where design translates to practical simplicity. Produced by Cassina until 2000, this chair has now been relaunched, the finishes and details having been updated from the original archive model. The sophisticated elegance of the frame, which features cylindrical legs and curved arm-rests, has been rejuvenated thanks to Cassina’s extensive experience in handling leather, not to mention the company’s high quality carpentry skills. The complex nature of this piece is expressed in a design that looks simple but fully reflects the genius quality of the original concept, a veritable masterpiece of the crafts tradition proper to Meda, in the Brianza area north of Milan, the trademark registered by Cassina and a guarantee of utmost quality. The frame, in finest quality wood, bespeaks the perfect combination of the artisanal tradition and premier CNC technology, while the overall design stands out for the self-supporting seat crafted from one single piece of saddle leather, curved and slotted into the frame. The decorative stitching has been discontinued, while the rear of the chair still features the leather belt that lends support to the back and enhances its comfort quotient. The 905 chair features a solid wood structure with cylindrical legs and curved armrests, joined to a self-supporting cowhide seat, the quintessential expression of the time-tested experience of the Cassina joinery and saddlery. A masterpiece of complexity, this cowhide chair symbolizes the company’s talent at perfectly blending traditional artisan craftsmanship and the cutting-edge technology of latest-generation 5-axis CNC machines. Important information regarding images of products: Please note that some of the images show other colors and variations of the model, these images are only to present interior design proposals. The item that is selling is on the first image. Important information regarding color(s) of products: Actual colors may vary. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colors and that everyone sees these colors differently. We try to edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual color may vary slightly from your monitor About the designer: In 1920 Magistretti was born in Milan, the city in which he graduated in architecture in 1945, and where his professional career has spun its story ever since, chiefly in the fields of architecture, town planning and industrial design. The first recognition of his work came in 1948, when he won the Gran Premio at the 8th Triennale. After that came almost forty years of activity with other prizes and awards in recognition of Magistretti’s work in various sectors in different countries. Giving lessons and lectures in various faculties of architecture and schools of design in Italy and abroad, from Milan to New York, from Paris to London, a city to which he is particularly devoted, he has been an “Honorary Fellow” of the Royal College of Art since 1983. Furniture, lamps and other objects that he designed may be found all over the world and the most important design museums have given exhibitions in his honour and kept examples of his work in their permanent collections. Magistretti’s research has been continuous - into design, the culture of the project and innovative experimentation with materials and space solutions, not to mention shapes and functions far from the rigours of fashion that they have passed through during the years. He started designing for Cassina in 1960, and from that date on his signature is to be found on very many products. We recall in particular the Maralunga sofa of 1973 and the Nuvola Rossa...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

1970s 2-Seater Maralunga Sofa by Vico Magistretti for Cassina
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Grand Cayman, KY
Iconic Mid-Century Modern Italian "Maralunga" two-seater sofa / armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina. This sofa features the original knitted wool upholstery in ivory. Head /...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wool

Set of Two Vico Magistretti 905 Armchairs by Cassina
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Set of two armchairs model 905 designed by Vico Magistretti in 1964. Manufactured by Cassina in Italy. A modern chair with a cultural heritage, expression of the creative genius of Vico Magistretti who designed it in 1964. 905 is an elegant chair made of solid wood and cowhide, where design translates to practical simplicity. Produced by Cassina until 2000, this chair has now been relaunched, the finishes and details having been updated from the original archive model. The sophisticated elegance of the frame, which features cylindrical legs and curved arm-rests, has been rejuvenated thanks to Cassina’s extensive experience in handling leather, not to mention the company’s high quality carpentry skills. The complex nature of this piece is expressed in a design that looks simple but fully reflects the genius quality of the original concept, a veritable masterpiece of the crafts tradition proper to Meda, in the Brianza area north of Milan, the trademark registered by Cassina and a guarantee of utmost quality. The frame, in finest quality wood, bespeaks the perfect combination of the artisanal tradition and premier CNC technology, while the overall design stands out for the self-supporting seat crafted from one single piece of saddle leather, curved and slotted into the frame. The decorative stitching has been discontinued, while the rear of the chair still features the leather belt that lends support to the back and enhances its comfort quotient. The 905 chair features a solid wood structure with cylindrical legs and curved armrests, joined to a self-supporting cowhide seat, the quintessential expression of the time-tested experience of the Cassina joinery and saddlery. A masterpiece of complexity, this cowhide chair symbolizes the company’s talent at perfectly blending traditional artisan craftsmanship and the cutting-edge technology of latest-generation 5-axis CNC machines. Important information regarding images of products: Please note that some of the images show other colors and variations of the model, these images are only to present interior design proposals. The item that is selling is on the first image. Important information regarding color(s) of products: Actual colors may vary. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colors and that everyone sees these colors differently. We try to edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual color may vary slightly from your monitor About the designer: In 1920 Magistretti was born in Milan, the city in which he graduated in architecture in 1945, and where his professional career has spun its story ever since, chiefly in the fields of architecture, town planning and industrial design. The first recognition of his work came in 1948, when he won the Gran Premio at the 8th Triennale. After that came almost forty years of activity with other prizes and awards in recognition of Magistretti’s work in various sectors in different countries. Giving lessons and lectures in various faculties of architecture and schools of design in Italy and abroad, from Milan to New York, from Paris to London, a city to which he is particularly devoted, he has been an “Honorary Fellow” of the Royal College of Art since 1983. Furniture, lamps and other objects that he designed may be found all over the world and the most important design museums have given exhibitions in his honour and kept examples of his work in their permanent collections. Magistretti’s research has been continuous - into design, the culture of the project and innovative experimentation with materials and space solutions, not to mention shapes and functions far from the rigours of fashion that they have passed through during the years. He started designing for Cassina in 1960, and from that date on his signature is to be found on very many products. We recall in particular the Maralunga sofa of 1973 and the Nuvola Rossa...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Space Age Vintage Two Duo Brown Plastic Armchairs Vico Magistretti 1968 Italy
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Vienna, AT
Space Age vintage two duo brown armchairs from plastic model Gaudi designed by Vico Magistretti for Artemide 1968, Italy. An iconic design armchair from plastic in chocolate brown co...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Space Age Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti Set of Six ‘Carimate’ Dining Chairs in Straw
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti, set of six dining chairs model ‘Carimate’, stained beech, rush, Italy, designed circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ chair is one of Vico Magistretti’s most famous chairs. Originally designed in a red color for the ‘Carimate Golf Club’ in Italy, a place that Magistretti himself designed. This specific model was produced for a long time and by four different manufacturers. Since Magistretti was very confident about the success of this model, he requested a patent for the construction and the joints in 1963. Due to the architectural, open frame the ‘Carimate’ chair has a strong expression. The angular frame has two curved armrests that add a dynamic appeal. Where the frame...
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1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Beech, Straw

Space Age Vintage Yellow Plastic Armchair Gaudi by Vico Magistretti 1968 Italy
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Vienna, AT
Space Age vintage armchair model Gaudi by Vico Magistretti from plastic in yellow color tone for Artemide 1968, Italy. The wonderful armchair model Gaudi in the rare color tone lemo...
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1960s Italian Space Age Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti for Cassina Pair of Rush & Beech Carimate Armchairs Italy, 1963
By Vico Magistretti, Cassina
Located in Chiavari, Liguria
Pair of Carimate lounge chairs designed by Vico Magistretti for the ‘Carimate Golf Club’ and produced by Cassina in the 1963. Made of beech, w...
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Beech

1960s "896" Vico Magistretti Cassina Italian Design Armchair
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Brescia, IT
Ice white leatherette and wood legs Rare model Excellent condiction.
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Gaudi Green Chair by Vico Magistretti for Artemide 1970s
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Byron Bay, NSW
The chairs are named "Gaudi" after the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, and their curvaceous forms and organic lines reflect the influence of Gaudi's style. The chairs are mad...
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1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti ‘Carimate’ Dining Chairs in Lacquered Wood
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Vico Magistretti, dining chairs ‘Carimate’, lacquered beech, fabric upholstery, Italy, design, circa 1960 The ‘Carimate’ chair is one of Vico Magistretti’s most famous designs. Orig...
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1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Fabric, Beech

Set of Three Vico Magistretti Lounge Chairs "Gaudi"
By Vico Magistretti, Artemide
Located in Berlin, DE
Set of three lounge chairs designed by Vico Magistretti. Modell "Gaudi". Manufactured 1970 bei Artemide, Milan Italy. Maker mark. Glass fiber reinforced plastic. Color: green. Plasti...
Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Carimate Dining Chairs by Vico Magistretti
By Vico Magistretti
Located in Los Angeles, CA
"Carimate" dining chairs with black lacquered wood and rush seat by Vico Magistretti for Cassina. Twelve available and priced per item. Made in Italy, circa 1960s. The "Carimate" ...
Category

1960s Italian Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Beech

Louisiana Armchair by De Padova Leather Foam Italy 1980s
By Vico Magistretti, ICF De Padova
Located in Milano, IT
Armchair with footrest, foam padding, leather and hide upholstery. Good conditions, with small signs of usage.
Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Foam

3-Seater Maralunga Sofa by Vico Magistretti for Cassina
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Grand Cayman, KY
Iconic Mid-Century Modern "Maralunga" 3-seater sofas / armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina. This example features green-grey velvet with colored pattern. While the fabric holds strong, re-covering in new fabric is recommended. Head / backrests are adjustable for a cheeky look that never fails to turn heads in the living room. They are also extremely comfortable. The height of the sofa with fully extended headrest is 40 in (100 cm) and 30 in (71 cm) when fully compressed. It has been professionally laundered and is clean, however, the fabric remains discolored. Structurally sound in every respect and an excellent candidates for re-covering according to decorator's desire. While origin stories behind the world’s timeless designs vary widely, the story of the Maralunga sofa is one of the best in design lore: As legend has it, when Cassina founder Cesare Cassina first saw the prototype for the piece in the mid-1970s by Italian furniture designer Vico Magistretti (1920–2006), he was so disgusted by it that he punched it, breaking the back of the sofa, which crumbled over itself . . . into the shape the piece would eventually take. (“Right, great, it looks perfect to me like that,” Magistretti allegedly responded.) Whether it was his accidental adjustment or further consideration of the design, Cassina clearly came around: His company debuted Magistretti’s design in 1973. The Maralunga is characterized by what looks like a slumped backrest but is really an adjustable-height headrest, moved by way of a bicycle chain...
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1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Velvet

1970s Pair of 2-Seater Maralunga Sofas by Vico Magistretti for Cassina
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Grand Cayman, KY
Iconic Mid-Century Organic Modern pair of Italian "Maralunga" two-seater sofas / armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina. This pair features their original knitted wool upholstery...
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1970s Italian Organic Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Wool

Vico Magistretti 905 Armchair for Cassina, Italy, 1960s
By Cassina, Vico Magistretti
Located in Milan, IT
Vico Magistretti 905 armchair for Cassina, Italy, 1960s.
Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Wood

Pair of Red Vicario Lounge Chairs Design by Vico Magistretti Made by Artemide
By Artemide, Vico Magistretti
Located in London, GB
A pair of original armchairs or lounge chairs named "Vicario" in a deep red plastic by renowned Italian Designer Vico Magistretti from 1969. Manufactured by Artemide. Stamped to base...
Category

1970s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Vico Magistretti Armchairs

Materials

Plastic

Vico Magistretti armchairs for sale on 1stDibs.

Vico Magistretti armchairs are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Vico Magistretti armchairs, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. We have 45 vintage editions of these items in-stock, while there is 22 modern edition to choose from as well. Many of the original armchairs by Vico Magistretti were created in the mid-century modern style in italy during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider armchairs by Giancarlo Piretti, Afra & Tobia Scarpa, and Mario Bellini. Prices for Vico Magistretti armchairs can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $600 and can go as high as $16,703, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,608.
Questions About Vico Magistretti Armchairs
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Carimate chair for Cassina is one of the most celebrated pieces of Vico Magistretti but this designer is also well known for the Eclipse Table Lamp, Selene Stacking Chair, Chimera Lamp and more. He is seen as one of Italy’s most influential industrial designers, furniture designers and architects. Shop a collection of Magistretti furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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